DARK WEB MONITORING
Note: This isn’t what the dark web actually looks like.
Happy February! Our mornings and afternoons are still darker than usual, so let’s use this opportunity to talk about the dark web… and how we help our clients shed light on it.
The dark web (or deep web) is a part of the internet that is hidden from search engines and requires specific software, configurations, or authorizations to access. While the dark web can be used for legitimate purposes, it is also a hub for illegal activities such as cybercrime, fraud, and illicit trade. Dark web monitoring is the practice of monitoring the dark web to identify and mitigate potential threats to an organization's security – and this service is included as part of our 2024 BT Guardian cybersecurity package.
Here's why we recommend it:
Cybersecurity: Dark web monitoring can help organizations identify potential threats to their cybersecurity. Cybercriminals often use the dark web to sell stolen data, access credentials, and other tools that can be used in cyberattacks. By monitoring the dark web, organizations can identify and mitigate these threats before they are exploited. Credential compromise is one of the fastest vectors to a cyber attack and is responsible for more than 60% of data breaches.
Reputation: Cyberattacks and data breaches can cause severe damage to an organization's reputation. By monitoring the dark web, organizations can identify any leaked sensitive information or discussions about their brand, products, or services, allowing them to protect their reputation.
Compliance: Some industries such as healthcare, financial services, and government have regulatory requirements that mandate the monitoring of the dark web for potential breaches. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and reputational damage.
Early warning: Monitoring the dark web can provide early warning of potential cyberattacks. If an organization becomes aware of discussions or plans related to an attack on their organization, they can take immediate action to mitigate the threat before it is executed.
Fraud prevention: The dark web is a hub for fraudulent activities such as identity theft, credit card fraud, and phishing scams. Dark web monitoring can help organizations identify and prevent these types of fraud, protecting both themselves and their customers.
Dark web monitoring involves using specialized tools and services to scan the dark web for mentions of an organization, its employees, or sensitive information. These tools can identify threats such as stolen data, hacking tools, or discussions related to cyberattacks. We use a combination of these tools to ensure a comprehensive safety net for our clients.
Dark web monitoring is an essential tool for organizations that want to protect themselves from cyber threats, maintain their reputation, and comply with regulatory requirements. By monitoring the dark web, organizations can identify potential threats early and prevent them from being exploited. While dark web monitoring requires specialized skills and tools, the benefits of doing so are clear and can help organizations protect themselves in today's increasingly connected digital world.
Have questions about monitoring or other facets of the BT Guardian package? Let's get in touch!
-The BT Team